Cheng Su was busy at home preparing a feast for the guests, while Qi Fenglian had already arrived with a freshly groomed Chu Changxing.
"Fenglian, how do I look, okay?" Chu Changxing whispered nervously to Qi Fenglian, carrying gifts in both hands, causing Xiao Yun behind them to glance and smirk.
Qi Fenglian looked him up and down and laughed, "Not bad, anyone who didnât know would think youâre the groom."
He had somehow acquired a suit, even a tie, his hair slicked into a shiny center part, and his shoes polished brightâa true groomâs attire.
Satisfied with her answer, Chu Changxing grinned, "I couldnât possibly disrespect you."
Qi Fenglian blushed slightly, lightly cursing him while holding her son.
Xiao Yun couldnât stand it any longer and ran ahead, saying, "Iâll go up first!"
The two of them fell silent, and followed behind, with Qi Fenglian quietly explaining the familyâs temperaments.
"Uncle." Suddenly, Xiao Bao, cradled by Qi Fenglian, called out.
Qi Fenglian stopped and turned to look, and sure enough, Qi Taiguo, dressed in military uniform, was striding over with a steady, commanding presence.
"Big sister!" Qi Taiguo quickly reached them, greeted Qi Fenglian, and then turned his sharp eyes on Chu Changxing, scrutinizing him.
"This is my eldest brother, Taiguo," Qi Fenglian said to Chu Changxing.
Chu Changxing was aware that Qi Fenglianâs big brother was an officer in the army but had never met him before. Now seeing him, he was indeed imposing and extraordinary. Being stared at so intensely only made his already nervous heart even tighter.
This future brother-in-law was evidently not someone to mess with!
He put down the gifts, wiped the cold sweat from his palms against his pants, stretched out his hand, and stammered, "Hello, big brother."
Seeing Chu Changxing so nervous he was sweating, Qi Taiguo, despite his apprehension, recognized his genuine eyes and withdrew his icy demeanor, saying, "Big Brother Chu, just call me Taiguo."
Chu Changxing heard this, and he and Qi Fenglian simultaneously breathed a sigh of relief, grinning as he called, "Taiguo."
Qi Taiguo nodded, reached out to take Xiao Bao from Qi Fenglian, holding him with one arm, and said, "Itâs cold, letâs go inside for some tea and talk." With that, he strode ahead.
Chu Changxing hurriedly picked up the gifts again and followed with Qi Fenglian.
The family was mentally prepared when they saw Xiao Yun arrive, but seeing them enter together with Qi Taiguo was a surprise.
"Just ran into each other downstairs," Qi Taiguo explained.
Qi Fenglian enthusiastically introduced Chu Changxing to the family, and Chu Changxing was apprehensive, fearing any misstep or breach of etiquette.
But Father Qi noticed his demeanor and expressed approval repeatedly; his expression showed he was quite satisfied with Chu Changxing.
Mother Qi felt the same way. Although the minor flaw was that Chu Changxing had a nearly adult son, Qi Fenglian was also remarrying with a child. He had a house and a business, which were decent conditions.
Cheng Su poured tea for them, allowing them to sit and chat, then went back to the kitchen to continue preparing. With the guests all there, it was almost time to dine.
Xiao Yun came over too. The girl had grown into a young lady, rolling up her sleeves to help Cheng Su, casually remarking, "Auntie, looks like Iâm really going to have a stepdad!"
Her melancholic expression didnât match her age at all, causing Cheng Su to laugh and ask, "You donât want that?"
When parents remarry, a childâs opinion is important too; Cheng Su wanted to know Xiao Yunâs thoughts.